5 Things to Know When Starting A YouTube Channel

When starting a YouTube channel, there are many things that you need to keep in mind when creating your content and trying to grow your platform. We sat down with Bob Baker, St. Louis-based music marketing expert, educator, musician, artist, comedian, author, and YouTuber. Over the past 14 years, Bob has grown his YouTube channel, Bob Baker Affirmations, to 148,000 subscribers and over 16million total views. Bob shared with us some tips and things to keep in mind when you’re starting your own YouTube channel:

You Don’t Need to Spend a Fortune on Quality Filming/Editing Equipment

While, yes, decent recording and editing plays a large role in the overall quality of your content, you don’t need thousands of dollars in equipment and professional setup to start your channel and initially grow your audience. You can easily get away with just using a smartphone to record your video and use easily accessed editing softwares, such as ScreenFlow or iMovie.

Be Yourself and Enjoy What You’re Creating

Ultimately, your audience stays and subscribes for YOU. Allow your personality to show and don’t forget about the human element.

Connect With Your Audience

This as well goes with not forgetting about the human element. Connect with your viewers and inspire them. Be yourself and be engaging.

Be Consistent

Consistency is key for starting and growing your channel. Having a set uploading schedule to stick with helps keep viewers engaged and coming back for more.

Don’t Give Up

It’s going to take time to grow your channel from the start. “If you have a new channel, you’re going to hear crickets for the longest time” (Baker). What’s important is to stay committed, consistent, be patient, and don’t give up.

Learn more about starting and growing your YouTube channel on our full interview with Bob Baker below: